Missouri Customized Training Program

The Missouri Customized Training Program provides assistance to Missouri employers for the training and retraining of new and existing employees. Your company may apply for funding to cover costs related to classroom training, such as curriculum development, instructional salaries, and training materials.

Eligible Applicants
Your company is qualified to apply if it meets the following criteria:

provides permanent, full-time employment to Missouri residents;
is creating new jobs in the state above the company’s peak employment level in the past year; or
is retraining existing employees as a result of a substantial new capital investment.

Application Procedure
Your company should contact the MCC Institute for Workforce Innovation 30 days prior to the start date of training or hiring to initiate the application process. The Missouri Division of Workforce Development staff will review the application and then notify you as to whether funding will be awarded and at what level. Training may be provided by a Local Education Agency such as MCC, a private vendor, or company personnel.
For more information, contact Jessica Craig – jessica.craig@mcckc.edu 816-604-1560

• Have a plan.  Don’t be piecemeal in your efforts and understand how all of the things you do tie together around your brand or message.
• Have a website.  Make sure the site reflects the image you want to convey, make it easy to reach a real person, and make sure you are able to measure your site metrics.  (Can’t manage what you don’t measure)
• Ask your customers where they want to go, and then help them get there.  Rather than focus on what you can sell them, make sure your solution is the best solution for them.  This may mean re-training or rethinking your sales team.
• Use current technology.  A & E has all but eliminated the use of brochures for video and live demonstrations and utilizes ipads for communication across all levels of the company.
• Network, network, network.  Being involved in organizations both in and out of your industry gives you many more opportunities for collaboration.   No one can do everything, so knowing how to work with other firms to offer your customers a complete solution is a win for both companies.
• Use the media.  Public relations is more critical today when reporting and research budgets are being slashed, and reporters are increasingly looking for content to help them tell the story.  A & E’s exposure in industry publications has brought them new opportunities, as well as re-enforced a positive image they have with current customers.
• Go to your customers.   Steve stressed the importance of looking to current business for growth, not just trying to find new customers.   Make sure you have regular and open communication, and serve as a resource.   One example is A & E has started looking at trade shows  not only in their industry, but at shows that their customers are attending.

Of course many of the headlines revolve around social media.  Social media can be a great vehicle for staying in touch with customers, but is not a panacea, it is just another channel.  Ad Words campaigns typically have little value, unless they can be focused around a particular competency, skill or product that is unique or in high demand.     Bottom line, the value of a particular marketing tactic is only as good as the overall plan that is developed with all functional areas of the company’s input.

- the opportunity to grow your business with shorter lead times

- the need for skilled workers

- the trend towards work returning from overseas

You can view the video by clicking here!

Lisa Kist – Robbie Flexibles

Steve Hall – Boelte Hall

Jason Grove – Dimensional Innovations

Our panelists will discuss their product or service offerings as well as:

• The product development process – from innovation to revenue
• Getting the right people involved
• The customer’s role in development
• Product development budgeting and planning
• Suggestions and lessons learned

Tuesday March 6, 2012
7:30- 9 AM
Hilton Garden Inn at 5^th & Minnesota, Kansas City,  Kansas

Cost is $15 for members and $25 for guests. Guests may attend 2 meetings before having to join as a member.  Sign up by no later than March 1st by clicking here, or contact Donna Gordon at 816-304-7958, or donna@kcmn.org

Jason Grove – Dimensional Innovations is an award-winning, multi-disciplinary firm taking ideas through design, fabrication and installation. We create experiences that make distinctive connections with our clients and your customers. Our proven experience in various market segments includes: cinemas, casinos, sports facilities, retailers, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, entertainment venues, museums, zoos, libraries and government.  In 2011, as a product of our Innovations Lab, we created and delivered to market Shield Casework™ , a solid surface microbial resistant line of healthcare casework. The product is designed to meet a wide range of applications in hospitals, labs, clinics and senior living facilities. Shield Casework™ delivers greater value and better bottom line performance.

Lisa Kist – Robbie Flexibles  Founded in 1970 and based in Lenexa, Kansas, Robbie, is a premier packaging company providing sustainable merchandising solutions using 10-color process printing on a variety of films for supermarkets, food/beverage, and consumer goods companies. In addition, Robbie supplies superior pouch and bag technology with high tech solutions for demanding applications.

Steve Hall – Boelte Hall was founded in 1967 to provide print services, including sheet fed lithography, die cutting, mailing, large format, posters, and banners. Over the years, we’ve grown and expanded our services to include not only print, but also event marketing and trade show displays, promotional items, brand management, mailing, video, online storefronts, variable data digital printing and complete cross channel marketing services.

Mid-America Manufacturing Technology Center  and Missouri Enterprise  are our Network sponsors. The event is open to area manufacturers and their suppliers.  Service providers are welcome with the understanding that they not utilize the network as a sales channel.  We invite you to join with us to make KCMN the premier resource for manufacturers.

Due to our need to cover the event costs, no shows will be billed. Cancellations will be accepted no later than 3 business days prior to an event. Cancellations of reservations paid by credit card will be assessed a $10 processing fee by the registration service, or contact us for event credit for a future event.

The four presenting schools Johnson County Community College, Kansas City Kansas Community College, Metropolitan Community College – Business & Technology, and Pittsburg State University, all emphasized their desire to be responsive to the needs of the region’s manufacturers.  For example, Pittsburg State utilizes an industry review board to look at ways to improve the curriculum and respond to changes in the marketplace.  KCK Community College, JCCC and MCC can tailor customized training programs for even small employee groups.  The community colleges emphasized that a program of study could be developed outside of a traditional degree program, which traditionally has more appeal to a working adult with additional responsibilities.   For employees looking to take their careers to the next level, Pittsburg State has developed a program to work with students who have earned a technical associates degree to earn a Bachelor’s degree that includes both technical and managerial coursework.

One area of discussion was improving front line supervisory skills.  Torotel was very pleased that their partnership with JCCC greatly improved all measures of behavior and leadership skills of their supervisory people, as measured by a pre and post training employee survey.  As a result of better supervisory behavioral and leadership skills – communication, problem solving, delegate, interpersonal skills, feedback, change, authority, and accountability the percentage also improved in 25% and better in five months.  This was accomplished despite a limited budget for training.

Cost of training programs is always a concern in an era of tight budgets. JCCC works with KS Workforce Partnership and can help you determine if training funds from the state are available.  The school also can serve in partnership with MCC when there is a cross state need identified, and they are working towards more cooperation.  KCK Community College’s Rich Piper will identify the right institution for your needs, and will recommend another institution if the in-state tuition makes the program too expensive.  Pittsburg State offers in-state tuition to MO residents in counties in the Metro KC area.

An extended discussion focused on the needs to increase the worker pipeline.  Ben Boone of ATK Small Caliber Systems says that going through the process of Lean increases stress on the labor force, and increased skills attainment by the workforce is critical to making the effort successful.  Forty percent or more of skilled workers are eligible or approaching eligibility for retirement.  Rich Piper noted the declining state of shop classes and other hands on programs at the high school level.  In schools without these kinds of outlets, there is a much higher rate of drop-outs, especially among boys. Tom Goodpasture of Pride Manufacturing stated that getting involved in education and the development of the next generation of workers is critical as well.  He noted that ‘If you are not at the table, you are likely to end up on the menu”

All of the manufacturing company panelists agreed that having a plan for both current and future workers was important.  As Dr. John Iley of Pittsburg State noted, classroom work can only cover so much.  Students also need co-op and internship opportunities to apply what they are learning.

Jason Grove with Dimensional Innovations has hired and continues to hire Pittsburg State interns and grads, and has been very happy with the results.  Developing and running an intern program is challenging, but it also carries many rewards, including new perspectives on the business and new enthusiasm from the younger workers. He stressed the importance of forming a two-way relationship with your educational partner. When both sides benefit, the outcomes are greatly improved.

Tom Goodpasture with Pride Manufacturing has had an active training program in his facility in order to respond to growing demand for skilled workers.  It is vital to cross train employees, and to utilize training as way to keep workers engaged. Tom also strongly recommended involvement in both the national and local dialog.  Elected leaders need to understand the concerns of industry, and appreciate the feedback.

Ben Boone emphasized that it is critical to capture the knowledge of older workers, and a key way to do this is by training them to capture their processes.  For example, MCC offers a course in digital literacy where older workers can learn to use excel and other technology to help document their work.   The manufacturing panelists strongly emphasized talking up education to your workers, and making sure that the culture values those who continue to improve their skills.

All of the speakers emphasized that the worker shortage is only going to get worse.  It is important to do what you can to encourage both improved skill sets/cross training of current workers, but also finding ways to advocate for earlier involvement, at the high school and even junior high level.  As a nation, we have avoided tracking kids into particular areas, but a range of skill sets is being ignored at the peril of our future competitiveness in manufacturing in the US.   If all of the jobs that went to China returned to the US, we would not have the workforce to fill them.

Manufacturers sometimes see marketing in light of the quote, “I know I’m wasting half of my money, I just wish I knew which half!”  In addition to cutting the bottom line, survival depends on the ability to sustain and grow the top line, sales, as well.   How do you know which trade shows will result in new business? What channel is the best to reach my target customer? What’s the best method for finding new customers?  February’s meeting gives you an opportunity to learn some new strategies for reaching out for increased sales.

How to market your firm successfully on a limited budget – Rich Delaney – Owner of 20/20 Marketing  Discover from a proven marketing professional who has worked for Caterpillar Corp. and helped local manufacturers become more successful, what it takes to increase sales and profits.  Rich Delaney, president of 20/20 Marketing has over 30 years experience in building sales and profits for companies.  His insights will reveal how to capture more sales without big budgets.

Marketing Strategies for the Real World –Steve Hasty, President, A&E Custom Manufacturing  See how one Kansas City area manufacturer with limited resources implemented an effective marketing strategy that carried them though the “great recession” and beyond.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012
7:30-9:00 AM
Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Minnesota Avenue, Kansas City, Kansas

Cost is $15 for members and $25 for guests. Guests may attend 2 meetings before having to join as a member.  Sign up today at By clicking here , or contact Donna Gordon.

Marketing Questions? Do you have a particular data point/area of interest you’d like out speakers to cover?  Email us your questions or include them as part of your online signup process.

20/20 Marketing and president Rich Delaney, are dedicated to providing innovative solutions to individuals and organizations committed to growth.  20/20 Marketing helps companies get more from their marketing, sales efforts and employees with a focus on strategic planning, integrated marketing communications, sales development programs, and improved advertising communications strategies. Clients include top Fortune 100 firms to small / medium sized firms and solo entrepreneurs. The common denominator is that they all seek to improve their marketing and sales processes and profitability.

A&E Custom Manufacturing is a quality metal fabricator founded in 1959, and is now a premier source for one-of-a-kind, short and medium run fabrications.  A&E specializes in: Tool and die-making for the metal stamping industry, Medium- to large-run precision stamping production, and Custom sheet metal fabrication.  To serve their customers, the company continually updates equipment and process technology, and has installed current state-of-the-art automated laser cutting and forming equipment. Customers include:  signage and display companies, architects, mechanical designers, inventors, and the food processing, transportation, medical and agricultural industries.

Mid-America Manufacturing Technology Center and Missouri Enterprise are our Network sponsors. The event is open to area manufacturers and their suppliers. We invite you to join with us to make KCMN the premier resource for manufacturers.

Due to our need to cover the event costs, no shows will be billed. Cancellations will be accepted no later than 3 business days prior to an event. Cancellations of reservations paid by credit card will be assessed a $10 processing fee by the registration service, or contact us for event credit for a future event. You may register as a guest for up to 2 events before membership is required. For questions or comments, please contact Donna Gordon.

KCMN is kicking off the new year with an opportunity for you to learn about education and training programs designed for manufacturing employers, and give you an opportunity to provide input to the region’s educational institutions.  The meeting will feature speakers from 4 regional education providers, who will also include a manufacturer that has utilized each of their programs to talk about their experience and benefits.

 Educational Institutions and Speakers

• Johnson County Community College, and Julie Brethauer, Human Resource Manager at Torotel
• Kansas City Kansas Community College’s Technical Education Center, and Tom Goodpasture, CEO, Pride Manufacturing
• Metropolitan Community College Business and Technology Campus, and Ben Boone, Supervisor, B3 Machine Shops and Flex-Pro Shop, ATK Small Caliber Systems, Lake City Ammunition Plant
• Pittsburg State University Career Services/College of Technology, and Jason Grove, Vice President of Operations, Dimensional Innovations

January 10, 2012
7:30 – 9:15 AM
Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Minnesota, Kansas City Kansas

AGENDA

7:30 AM – Breakfast and sign in
7:40 AM – Presentations by educational providers, and case studies on how a manufacturer has utilized their program to improve their workforce
8:40-9:15 AM – Chance to meet one on one with representatives from the four educational institutions

Cost is $15 for members and $25 for guests. Guests may attend 2 meetings before having to join as a member.  Sign by January 6 by clicking here , or contact Donna Gordon at 816-304-7958.   Due to a need to cover costs, no shows will be billed.

 The Center for Business and Technology at Johnson County Community College is the center for all your training needs. The center provides training that spans nearly every functional area of a successful business. Our expansive array of programs and customized training sets us apart from the competition. In addition, our expert instructors and quality curriculum are unmatched in meeting the needs of Kansas City’s most successful individuals, businesses and organizations.

Kansas City Kansas Community College’s Technical Education Center (TEC) offers over 20 hands-on technical skill training programs during the day which lead to certificates and employment in office and computer technology, service and health occupations, or trade and industrial fields. Anyone wanting to improve his/her employment potential including college graduates, home makers, dislocated workers, high school seniors, those no longer in school, and senior citizens will receive the hands-on technical education that employers want. TEC curriculum is aligned with business and industry standards. Advanced students may participate in work-based learning experiences or internships. Leadership skills are also developed through opportunities with national student organizations.

Metropolitan Community College Business & Technology Campus is one of five Metropolitan Community College campuses. Located off Front Street and I-435 just northeast of downtown Kansas City, MCC-BTC is home to eight major technical programs. Manufacturing skills are taught in the campus’ Precision Machining, Engineering Technology (CADD and Prototyping), Welding, and Industrial Technology (Industrial Maintenance, Industrial Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls and Millwright) programs. The campus is discussing developing programs in Industrial Fabrication and Biomanufacturing. Students benefit from instructors with significant years of industry experience. The college is fully accredited, has multiple articulation agreements with baccalaureate and labor partners and a variety of financial aid and scholarship options.

Pittsburg State University is one of the premiere universities in the Midwest and home to four distinct colleges. Each of our colleges (College of Arts & Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Technology) is nationally known for the quality of its programs, faculty and students. Pittsburg State offers more than 150 academic programs for its 7200 students, and provides the opportunity to earn both an undergraduate and graduate degree. The College of Technology offers15 different program areas to students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, and are designed (1) to prepare for employment in business and industry in managerial and supervisory positions; (2) to prepare for employment as technologists and technicians; (3) to prepare teachers and supervisors in vocational-technical education, technology education, and industrial training.

MID-AMERICA TAAC
664 SE Bayberry Lane, Suite101
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Phone: 816-246-1555
Fax: 816-246-9860
800-551-8222 (AR, KS, MO)